Latest news with #AlisonMacLean
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact
GROW GIRL I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WITH summer right around the corner, Brits are itching to get back out into their gardens. But, a well-designed outdoor space isn't just for show – it could boost your home's value by a whopping 20% - a staggering £53,480 based on the average house price. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 A few budget adjustments can transform a garden Credit: Getty Alison MacLean, property expert at the award-winning national housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, has revealed five budget-friendly garden upgrades that could add serious value to your outdoor space this summer… Maximise light and shade While simply owning a south facing garden is enough to boost your property's value - regardless of your outdoor orientation, finding a way to make the most of British summertime is key. Those with a north or east facing garden will find their outdoor spaces are naturally shadier. Prioritise lighter areas by adding seating or decking, and in the shadier areas, focus on brightening with shadow loving plants, painting fences in lighter colours, and adding reflective surfaces such as mirrors and water features. For west or south facing gardens, zoning can help to create shady retreats. Planting taller trees on the west side of your garden can provide cooling coverage from the afternoon heat, and installing small structures can help to create shaded areas to spend time throughout the day. If you have more money to invest, a pergola can be a great option, or a more budget-friendly parasol can be bought for as little as £10 to provide a similar effect. If you're lucky enough to have a newbuild home and a blank canvas to work from, track the sunlight before making any big decisions—understanding how it moves through your space will help you create a garden that's both practical and primed for the sunniest days. Put down some roots Although obvious, adding plants and flowers to your garden can be one of the most costs-effective, and transformative, ways to boost your curb appeal. Choose plants that will thrive in the space you have and that also meet your budget. Shoppers urged 'not to blink' and get their hands on Home Bargains garden essential that sold out fast last time and it makes your garden extra cute - TikTok homebargainsofficialuk Marigolds and pansies are both excellent choices for those who want to create instant bursts of colour without the wait – ideal for a brand-new garden. Raised wooden vegetable or herb gardens are an easy way to grow homegrown produce, and of course, earn garden bragging rights. They're equally functional as they are aesthetic, and cost on average around £200 to build. Create a sense of privacy Incorporating trees, hedges or climbing plants can be a perfect way to create visual barriers. If speed is a priority, bamboo is fast-growing option, and for those willing to play the long game, a clematis can also make for a beautiful privacy screen over time. Looking to add a structural element? Trellis is a fantastic choice and can cost just £15 - £20 per panel. Whether it's built alongside fences to support climbing plants or used to zone off standalone areas of the garden, it's a versatile upgrade that offers a huge amount of creativity in its use. Improve your lawn health A well-kept lawn requires some effort but makes an enormous difference to your outdoor space. With the British summertime as unpredictable as ever – as well as regular mowing, keep an eye on whether your lawn needs some extra hydration. For homeowners that have purchased a new build, don't just cross your fingers and hope for the best - freshly laid turf may need some extra love and care. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Watering once a week or less if the weather is damp, with collected rainwater, can help your new garden to establish itself to remain green all year round. Adding mulch is also cost-effective way to improve your soil and grass health without breaking the bank and can cost as little as £110. Think of it as a superfood for your garden – but without the hefty price tag. Keep it secure A sure-fire way to boost your property's value is to improve your garden security. Ensuring you have robust fencing, strategically planted borders and gates with strong locks and bolts are all basic measures to undertake, but what other things can be done to deter unwanted intruders? Motion-activated lights are a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution, and are best placed near access points such as back doors or gates. Opting for gravel paths can also make it more challenging for an intruder to approach quietly at a budget-friendly cost of just £10-£30 per square meter.
The Sun
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact
WITH summer right around the corner, Brits are itching to get back out into their gardens. But, a well-designed outdoor space isn't just for show – it could boost your home's value by a whopping 20% - a staggering £53,480 based on the average house price. 1 Alison MacLean, property expert at the award-winning national housebuilder, St. Modwen Homes, has revealed five budget-friendly garden upgrades that could add serious value to your outdoor space this summer… Maximise light and shade While simply owning a south facing garden is enough to boost your property's value - regardless of your outdoor orientation, finding a way to make the most of British summertime is key. Those with a north or east facing garden will find their outdoor spaces are naturally shadier. Prioritise lighter areas by adding seating or decking, and in the shadier areas, focus on brightening with shadow loving plants, painting fences in lighter colours, and adding reflective surfaces such as mirrors and water features. For west or south facing gardens, zoning can help to create shady retreats. Planting taller trees on the west side of your garden can provide cooling coverage from the afternoon heat, and installing small structures can help to create shaded areas to spend time throughout the day. If you have more money to invest, a pergola can be a great option, or a more budget-friendly parasol can be bought for as little as £10 to provide a similar effect. If you're lucky enough to have a newbuild home and a blank canvas to work from, track the sunlight before making any big decisions—understanding how it moves through your space will help you create a garden that's both practical and primed for the sunniest days. Put down some roots Although obvious, adding plants and flowers to your garden can be one of the most costs-effective, and transformative, ways to boost your curb appeal. Choose plants that will thrive in the space you have and that also meet your budget. Shoppers urged 'not to blink' and get their hands on Home Bargains garden essential that sold out fast last time and it makes your garden extra cute - TikTok homebargainsofficialuk Marigolds and pansies are both excellent choices for those who want to create instant bursts of colour without the wait – ideal for a brand-new garden. Raised wooden vegetable or herb gardens are an easy way to grow homegrown produce, and of course, earn garden bragging rights. They're equally functional as they are aesthetic, and cost on average around £200 to build. Create a sense of privacy Incorporating trees, hedges or climbing plants can be a perfect way to create visual barriers. If speed is a priority, bamboo is fast-growing option, and for those willing to play the long game, a clematis can also make for a beautiful privacy screen over time. Looking to add a structural element? Trellis is a fantastic choice and can cost just £15 - £20 per panel. Whether it's built alongside fences to support climbing plants or used to zone off standalone areas of the garden, it's a versatile upgrade that offers a huge amount of creativity in its use. Improve your lawn health A well-kept lawn requires some effort but makes an enormous difference to your outdoor space. With the British summertime as unpredictable as ever – as well as regular mowing, keep an eye on whether your lawn needs some extra hydration. For homeowners that have purchased a new build, don't just cross your fingers and hope for the best - freshly laid turf may need some extra love and care. Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants: 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Watering once a week or less if the weather is damp, with collected rainwater, can help your new garden to establish itself to remain green all year round. Adding mulch is also cost-effective way to improve your soil and grass health without breaking the bank and can cost as little as £110. Think of it as a superfood for your garden – but without the hefty price tag. Keep it secure A sure-fire way to boost your property's value is to improve your garden security. Ensuring you have robust fencing, strategically planted borders and gates with strong locks and bolts are all basic measures to undertake, but what other things can be done to deter unwanted intruders? Motion-activated lights are a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution, and are best placed near access points such as back doors or gates. Opting for gravel paths can also make it more challenging for an intruder to approach quietly at a budget-friendly cost of just £10-£30 per square meter.
The Irish Sun
25-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
I'm a gardening expert, my £10 tricks will totally transform your garden with minimum effort but will have a high impact
WITH summer right around the corner, Brits are itching to get back out into their gardens. But, a well-designed outdoor space isn't just for show – it could boost your home's value by a whopping 20% - a staggering £53,480 based on the average house price. Advertisement 1 A few budget adjustments can transform a garden Credit: Getty Alison MacLean, property expert at the award-winning national housebuilder, Maximise light and shade While simply owning a south facing garden is enough to boost your property's value - regardless of your outdoor orientation, finding a way to make the most of British summertime is key. Those with a north or east facing garden will find their outdoor spaces are naturally shadier. Prioritise lighter areas by adding seating or decking, and in the shadier areas, focus on brightening with shadow loving plants, painting fences in lighter colours, and adding reflective surfaces such as mirrors and water features. Advertisement Read More on Gardening For west or south facing gardens, zoning can help to create shady retreats. Planting taller trees on the west side of your garden can provide cooling coverage from the afternoon heat, and installing small structures can help to create shaded areas to spend time throughout the day. If you have more money to invest, a pergola can be a great option, or a more budget-friendly parasol can be bought for as little as £10 to provide a similar effect. If you're lucky enough to have a newbuild home and a blank canvas to work from, track the sunlight before making any big decisions—understanding how it moves through your space will help you create a garden that's both practical and primed for the sunniest days. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Put down some roots Although obvious, adding plants and flowers to your garden can be one of the most costs-effective, and transformative, ways to boost your curb appeal. Choose plants that will thrive in the space you have and that also meet your budget. Shoppers urged 'not to blink' and get their hands on Home Bargains garden essential that sold out fast last time and it makes your garden extra cute - TikTok homebargainsofficialuk Marigolds and pansies are both excellent choices for those who want to create instant bursts of colour without the wait – ideal for a brand-new garden. Raised wooden vegetable or herb gardens are an easy way to grow homegrown produce, and of course, earn garden bragging rights. Advertisement They're equally functional as they are aesthetic, and cost on average around £200 to build. Create a sense of privacy Incorporating trees, hedges or climbing plants can be a perfect way to create visual barriers. If speed is a priority, bamboo is fast-growing option, and for those willing to play the long game, a clematis can also make for a beautiful privacy screen over time. Looking to add a structural element? Trellis is a fantastic choice and can cost just £15 - £20 per panel. Advertisement Whether it's built alongside fences to support climbing plants or used to zone off standalone areas of the garden, it's a versatile upgrade that offers a huge amount of creativity in its use. Improve your lawn health A well-kept lawn requires some effort but makes an enormous difference to your outdoor space. With the British summertime as unpredictable as ever – as well as regular mowing, keep an eye on whether your lawn needs some extra hydration. For homeowners that have purchased a new build, don't just cross your fingers and hope for the best - freshly laid turf may need some extra love and care. Advertisement Gardening mistakes that could get you fined Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking. While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues. Tree removal and pruning : If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research. The gardening experts reveal: 'If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. " While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it. 'But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn. The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO. You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer. Property boundaries and fences : One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing. To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries 'Most of the time, it's easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side," they add. 'Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance. "Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height. "Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn't have a problem.' Garden structures and additions : A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade. But if it obstructs your neighbour's view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures. 'If you're not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you're planning and, if there's an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance," advise the gardening experts. Overhanging branches and plants : 'When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour's tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance," reveal the pros. However, it's important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing. You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don't have permission to enter your neighbours garden. Watering once a week or less if the weather is damp, with collected rainwater, can help your new garden to establish itself to remain green all year round. Adding mulch is also cost-effective way to improve your soil and grass health without breaking the bank and can cost as little as £110. Think of it as a superfood for your garden – but without the hefty price tag. Keep it secure A sure-fire way to boost your property's value is to improve your garden security. Ensuring you have robust fencing, strategically planted borders and gates with strong locks and bolts are all basic measures to undertake, but what other things can be done to deter unwanted intruders? Advertisement Motion-activated lights are a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution, and are best placed near access points such as back doors or gates. Opting for gravel paths can also make it more challenging for an intruder to approach quietly at a budget-friendly cost of just £10-£30 per square meter.
The Independent
20-02-2025
- Business
- The Independent
University support staff to strike for fortnight over ‘shameful' pension changes
Hundreds of support staff at a Scottish university are to strike for a fortnight in a fight against 'shameful' pension changes. Unite Scotland said members at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow will walk out from March 10 until March 23. Employees represented by Unite include facilities workers such as technicians, cleaners and security. They also include estate workers – including plumbers, joiners and electricians – all of whom backed industrial action. The strike comes in response to an ongoing dispute over pension changes, which they say would leave them worse off by thousands of pounds a year. The workers, who are part of Strathclyde Pension Fund, say the university is making the changes in a bid to access a pension surplus of almost £100 million. In what the union branded a 'cynical' move, officials said Strathclyde bosses amended its initial proposals without consulting staff first. A University of Strathclyde spokesperson said the strike announcement is 'disappointing' and that there had been 'extensive consultation'. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: 'Unite members at Strathclyde University are set for strike action because their employer is attempting a shameful cash-grab on their pensions. 'The university have left our members with no option but to take this action because they are furious that their pension pots are at risk. 'Unite will back our members 100% as the fight to protect their pensions intensifies in the coming weeks.' The union said calls for intervention from the Scottish Government have also been ignored in light of the university's failure to consult with Unite over its pension proposals as it receives public funds. Unite claims the university is riding roughshod over workers' rights and the Government's fair work principles. The union has also said the university has failed to respond to its attempts to resolve the dispute through negotiation. Alison MacLean, Unite regional co-ordinating officer, said: 'Strathclyde University is attempting to ignore Unite by ramming through these punitive pension proposals. 'There has been radio silence from the university despite our offer to negotiate a resolution to this dispute. 'The Scottish Government also have a responsibility because Strathclyde University receives significant public money yet they are attempting to ride roughshod over workers' rights, and rip up the fair work principles. 'The university has a pension surplus of £100 million and we have offered to explore ways of improving its short-term financial position. It comes as no surprise that management is refusing to do this because it means tackling exorbitant executive pay.' In 2023, Unite said university principal and vice-chancellor Sir Jim McDonald made £401,000, with a further £3 million split across staff of the executive team. A spokesperson for the University of Strathclyde said: 'Having engaged in extensive consultation over many months, we are disappointed with the trade union's decision to ask its members to undertake strike action. 'We will now take all necessary steps to mitigate the disruption that strike action may have on our students and their studies. 'Following further consultation with our staff we have recently shared an enhanced pension proposal. 'The university remains committed to providing an excellent pension provision to its staff. 'A decision regarding the proposed change of pension provider has not yet been made.' A Scottish Government spokesperson said: 'We appreciate this will be an anxious time for staff and ministers are concerned by the potential impact of strike action on students. 'The Scottish Government expects students to be appropriately supported by the university throughout this period, and to receive timely information about the impact of any disruption on their studies. 'While pension, pay and staffing matters are the responsibility of individual universities as autonomous institutions, we urge the university and trade unions to engage constructively to resolve disputes. Ministers are clear that any decisions taken must be based on the principles of fair work.'
The Independent
12-02-2025
- Business
- The Independent
Support staff at university call for strike action over proposed pension changes
Support staff at a Scottish university have 'emphatically' called for strikes in response to potential pension changes, a union has said. Unite Scotland said on Tuesday that 94% of the staff employed at the University of Strathclyde had backed industrial action. Employees represented by Unite include facilities workers such as technicians, cleaners and security. They also include maintenance workers – including plumbers, joiners and electricians – and all backed industrial action. The workers are part of the Strathclyde Pension Fund (SPF), and say they are at risk of losing thousands of pounds each year – accusing their employer of moving them on to a worse-off pension scheme. Workers say the university's reason for doing so is because it wants to access a pension surplus of almost £100 million. Some 94% of workers in an industrial action ballot supported strike action. The development comes despite a 'cynical' last-minute attempt by the university on the eve of the ballot result to amend its initial pension proposals without consulting the union. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: 'Unite's members at the University of Strathclyde have emphatically backed strike action. 'Pensions are deferred wages which our members contribute towards over many years for their retirement. 'The university's shameful cash grab from our hard-working members' pension pots will be vigorously resisted. 'Strathclyde University workers will have Unite's full support in defence of their pensions.' The union said the university does not need to make the changes because it made a surplus of £46.8 million in 2023 from an income of £487.4 million. Balloters also said the university has large reserves, holding net assets of £402.8 million in 2023, as well as an additional £142.7 million in cash. They said the university also has strong liquidity, with £360.7 million of its net assets being unrestricted, meaning they are not locked up and can be used in the event of any temporary financial downturn. They also said the university's vice-chancellor, Professor Sir Jim McDonald, earned a salary of £401,000 in 2023, with a further £3 million paid to the rest of the university's executive team. Unite said strike dates will be announced in the near future, but that the university has a chance to scrap the proposed changes in order to avoid them. The facts remain that there is a pension surplus of £100 million and any changes could leave some workers thousands of pounds worse-off every year Alison MacLean, Unite Alison MacLean, Unite regional co-ordinating officer, said: 'The University of Strathclyde has refused to meaningfully consult with us throughout this dispute. 'The cynical attempt to change their initial punitive pension proposal on the eve of the ballot result will be seen for exactly what it is by our members. 'The facts remain that there is a pension surplus of £100 million and any changes could leave some workers thousands of pounds worse-off every year. 'The university has an opportunity to bin its proposals and if they want to genuinely explore ways of improving its short-term financial position then Unite is willing to discuss ways to do this including tackling eye-watering executive pay.' A spokesman for the University of Strathclyde said: 'Having engaged in extensive consultation over many months, we are disappointed with the outcome of the ballot, which the trade union chose to undertake after they withdrew from the collective consultation process. 'Following further consultation with our staff we have recently shared an enhanced pension proposal. 'The university remains committed to providing an excellent pension provision to its staff. 'A decision regarding the proposed changed of pension provider has not yet been made.'
